Herrin, IL – A traffic stop in Williamson County led to the arrest of a convicted felon and the seizure of methamphetamine, cocaine, a loaded firearm, and drug paraphernalia.
According to the Williamson County Sheriff’s Office, deputies initiated a traffic stop at 9:28 p.m. Friday near the intersection of Herrin Road and Park Avenue after observing a vehicle lacking a proper registration plate. The driver, identified as Opal M. Teschky, was reportedly unable to provide valid insurance and appeared visibly nervous.
Deputies noted a spray-painted ATV in the truck bed with signs of tampered ignition. A consent search uncovered a metal tin with cocaine residue, prompting a probable-cause search. Authorities then recovered approximately 19.2 grams of crystal methamphetamine, 3.2 grams of crack cocaine, a loaded Sig Sauer P226 9mm handgun, a digital scale, glass smoking device, several items of paraphernalia, three debit cards not belonging to the suspect, and $1,612 in cash.
Teschky was taken into custody without incident and transported to the Williamson County Jail. She faces multiple charges including possession with intent to deliver methamphetamine, aggravated unlawful possession of a weapon, and unlawful possession of a weapon by a felon. She also faces counts related to drug possession, paraphernalia, and improper vehicle documentation.
Sheriff Jeff Diederich praised his deputies, stating, “Our Deputies continue to remove dangerous narcotics, illegal firearms, and those who choose to traffic in them from our communities. This case underscores the importance of vigilance and proactive policing.”
Although the ATV had signs of possible theft, it was not confirmed stolen. The case has been referred to investigators for further review.
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Williamson County Sheriff’s Office at 618-997-6541 or use the anonymous tip feature on the Sheriff’s mobile app.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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